There is certainly an air of excitement around Inter Miami at the moment thanks in part to the FIFA Club World Cup draw.
The Herons will be making their debut in the newly revamped tournament next summer and have been handed a tough group.
Despite facing some of the biggest club sides in the world Lionel Messi will be looking to keep up his excellent group-stage record.
David Beckham and the Inter Miami hierarchy will be looking to make some editions ahead of the tournament and have been linked with some of the biggest names in world football.
Neymar is just one of the names that is reportedly on the club’s radar, as well as Mo Salah and Paul Pogba.
While Inter Miami are keen on bringing in some superstar names it has been one of their World Cup opponents who has spoken about their excitement to play them.
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Palmeiras star Estevao excited for Messi matchup
Opposition players will rarely be so glowing about a future opponent but Lionel Messi is of course the exception.
Palmeiras winger Estevao, who will be joining Premier League side Chelsea next summer, has spoken about his excitement at facing Messi and Inter Miami in the Club World Cup.
Speaking to ESPN Brazil Estevao said: “When we were drawn into his group, I couldn’t believe I was going to face my biggest idol, a guy who is a role model for me on and off the field. It’s going to be a special moment, not just for me, but for all Palmeiras fans, the players. I think it’s going to be very important.”
The Brazilian, who has even been nicknamed ‘Messinho’, continued his glowing compliments of Messi and explained one thing he would do when he played against his idol.
He continued: “I’m going to ask for his shirt! Who knows, maybe I’ll score a goal, win the game… I think that’s the most important thing. God willing, everything will work out.”
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Estevao on ‘Messinho’ nickname
It seems commonplace for football wonder kids to be given a nickname which highlights their likeness to a more experienced legend of the game, this is certainly the case for Estevao.
While most embrace their nicknames many also try and distance themselves from the pressure.
Speaking about his ‘Messinho’ nickname Estevao told ESPN Brazil: “I confess that I haven’t liked being called Messinho since I was little. Since I was ten, at the Cruzeiro youth academy. I don’t like comparisons. For those who don’t know how to deal with it, it really gets in the way.
“At 17, I don’t have time to waste listening to criticism. I want to be happy, I love playing football, I want to enjoy it to the fullest. Me being Estêvão is very good.”
Inter Miami fans will be able to witness ‘Messinho’ when they face Palmeiras in their final group game on Monday, June 23rd.